How long does tallow last? Ultimate Comparison with 6 Fats

“How long does tallow last?” is often discussed in food forums.

Properly stored tallow can last up to a year at room temperature and even longer in the fridge or freezer.

But did you know knowing the right storage methods can help you make the most of your tallow? 

Yes, it’s true. Stick to the end to learn all the tricks to keep your tallow fresh and usable for longer!

How long does tallow last? Ultimate Breakdown

Tallow can last a long time if stored properly. Generally, tallow can last up to a year at room temperature due to its stable saturated fat content. Its longevity depends on how it’s stored, with cooler temperatures extending its shelf life. 

Properly stored tallow in an airtight container can even last indefinitely in the freezer. Understanding the storage conditions is key to making the most out of your tallow.

How Long Does Tallow Last in a Jar?

When stored in a jar, tallow can last quite a long time. If the jar is sealed and kept in a cool place, it can maintain its quality for up to a year. The key to longevity is preventing air and light exposure, which can cause the fat to oxidize and go rancid. 

Always ensure the jar is tightly sealed after each use to keep the tallow fresh and usable for an extended period.

How Long Does Tallow Last Unrefrigerated?

Unrefrigerated tallow, when stored in a cool, dark place and in an airtight container, can last up to six months. The stability of tallow at room temperature is because of its high saturated fat content, which resists spoilage. 

However, if the temperature fluctuates or the tallow is exposed to light and air, its shelf life can be significantly reduced, leading to a rancid smell and taste.

How Long Does Tallow Last in the Fridge?

Storing tallow in the fridge extends its shelf life considerably. When kept refrigerated, tallow can last up to one year. The cooler fridge temperature slows down oxidation, preserving its quality and preventing rancidity. 

For best results, store the tallow in an airtight container.

How Long Does Tallow Last in the Freezer?

Freezing tallow is the best method to ensure its longevity. In the freezer, tallow can last indefinitely without losing its quality. The freezing temperature halts the oxidation process entirely, making it a perfect method for long-term storage. 

Make sure to use an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag to prevent freezer burn and contamination.

Does Beef Tallow Need to Be Refrigerated After Opening?

Beef tallow does not necessarily need to be refrigerated after opening if it will be used within a short period, like within a few months. However, for longer storage, it’s advisable to refrigerate it. 

Opened tallow can last up to six months at room temperature, but refrigeration can extend its shelf life to a year, ensuring it remains fresh and free from rancidity.

How Long Does Homemade Beef Tallow Last?

Homemade beef tallow, when properly rendered and stored, can last up to a year at room temperature, six months if opened. For extended shelf life, keep it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to a year, or in the freezer, where it can last indefinitely. 

The key is to ensure it is stored in airtight containers.

To sum up, here’s the Tallow’s shelf life table:

How to know if tallow is bad? 5 Signs

To know if tallow is bad, check for a sour or rancid smell, which indicates spoilage. Also, look for changes in color or texture, such as a darker hue or a grainy feel. If it has an off taste, it’s best to discard it.

Smell

The first sign that tallow has gone bad is the smell. Fresh tallow has a neutral, almost nonexistent smell. But if the tallow has gone bad, it will smell rancid or sour. You might notice an off-putting, sharp odor that’s hard to ignore. 

This smell means the fats in the tallow have started to oxidize and spoil. I always trust my nose first because it’s the most reliable indicator. If it doesn’t smell right, don’t use it.

Color

Another way to know if your tallow is bad is by looking at its color. Good tallow is usually white or creamy yellow. Here’s a picture:

If you see dark spots, a grayish hue, or any kind of discoloration, it’s probably gone bad. The color changes because the fat is breaking down and possibly growing mold. 

I always inspect the tallow under good light to see its true color. Trust what you see; if it looks strange, it’s best to throw it away.

Texture

Texture can also tell you if the tallow has gone bad. Fresh tallow is smooth and firm. But if it feels sticky, slimy, or has a gritty texture, it’s a sign that it’s no longer good. The change in texture happens because the fat starts to degrade and mix with moisture. 

When I touch the tallow, I can immediately feel if it’s off. A weird texture is a clear indicator that it’s time to toss it out.

Taste

While not always the first thing you’d check, taste can also indicate bad tallow. Fresh tallow has a mild, pleasant taste. If it tastes bitter, metallic, or just unpleasant, it’s likely spoiled. 

I recommend only tasting a small amount if you’re unsure. This way, you avoid any potential health risks. If it doesn’t taste right, spit it out, and don’t use the tallow.

Mold

Lastly, if you see any mold on your tallow, it’s definitely gone bad. Mold can appear as fuzzy spots or colorful patches. This happens when the tallow is exposed to moisture and air. Always check for mold before using tallow, especially if it’s been stored for a while. 

If you see mold, do not try to scrape it off. The tallow is contaminated, and it’s best to discard it entirely.

Comparing Tallow with Other Animal Fats

Tallow, made from beef or mutton fat, lasts longer than many other animal fats. It’s very stable and can stay good at room temperature for up to a year. Other fats like lard and duck fat are tasty but spoil faster unless you keep them in the fridge. 

Ghee, which is clarified butter, also lasts long and has a buttery taste. Each type of fat has its own unique qualities and uses.

Lard

Lard comes from pork fat and is super tasty. You can keep it on the counter for about six months if it’s in a cool, dark place and in a sealed container. If you put it in the fridge, it can last up to a year. In the freezer, lard can stay good for up to two years. 

I love using lard for baking because it makes pastries flaky and delicious. I always keep mine in the fridge to make sure it stays fresh for my recipes.

Duck Fat

Duck fat is another delicious option, often used in fancy cooking. At room temperature, duck fat lasts about six months if you store it properly in a sealed container. In the fridge, it can last up to a year, and in the freezer, it can stay good for two years. Duck fat is amazing for roasting veggies and making confit. 

I like to freeze extra duck fat, so I have it ready for special meals, especially around the holidays.

Ghee

Ghee is like butter, but with the milk solids removed, making it last longer. It can stay good for up to a year on the counter if kept in a sealed container. In the fridge, ghee lasts about a year and a half, and in the freezer, it can last indefinitely. 

Chicken Fat

Chicken fat, also called schmaltz, is used in many traditional recipes. On the counter, it lasts about three months in a cool, dark place. In the fridge, it can last up to six months, and in the freezer, it can stay good for up to a year. 

Schmaltz adds great flavor to soups and other dishes. I always keep my chicken fat in the fridge so it’s ready to use when I need it.

Bacon Grease

Bacon grease is saved from cooking bacon and is great for frying and seasoning. It can last up to six months on the counter if stored in a sealed container. In the fridge, bacon grease can last up to a year, and in the freezer, it can stay good for two years. 

Bacon grease adds a smoky flavor to many dishes. I keep a jar in my fridge to use whenever I want to add a bit of bacon flavor to my cooking.

Goose Fat

Goose fat is similar to duck fat and is also used in gourmet cooking. It lasts up to six months at room temperature if stored properly. In the fridge, goose fat can last up to a year, and in the freezer, it stays good for up to two years. 

Goose fat is excellent for roasting potatoes and vegetables. I always freeze any leftover goose fat, so I have it on hand for special recipes.

Conclusion

Tallow is a versatile and long-lasting fat if stored properly. Here’s a quick recap:

• Unopened tallow lasts up to a year at room temperature and up to two years in the fridge.
• Freezing tallow can make it last indefinitely.
• Opened tallow stays good for about six months on the counter and up to a year in the fridge.
• Look out for signs like a bad smell, discoloration, and sticky texture to know if the tallow has gone bad.

That’s all. Now, you can enjoy the benefits of tallow for a long time!